2019 DIRECTV vs. DISH comparison

Is DIRECTV or DISH better for your home?

DIRECTV and DISH differ slightly in price, available channels, sports packs and DVR equipment. Depending on what you’re looking for in a TV service, you may find one provider to have an edge over the other.

Best year-over-year pricing 

DIRECTV and DISH currently offer the same introductory pricing, but the price for DISH stays the same for two years. DIRECTV’S prices increase by about $30/mo. after the first year. 

Best for 4K content 

Both DIRECTV’s Genie and DISH’s Hopper 3 have 4K capabilities. Currently, DIRECTV offers more 4K channels than DISH. DISH’s 4K options are mainly available via On Demand and the integrated Netflix app. 

Best equipment 

DISH has the better DVR equipment. DISH’s Hopper 3 can record up to 16 shows at once; DIRECTV’s Genie can record five. Plus, DISH has voice remote, with a built-in mic right on your remote. DIRECTV does not offer that feature. 

Best for NFL 

DIRECTV has exclusive rights to the NFL SUNDAY TICKET, which broadcasts every NFL game every Sunday. No other provider can offer this exclusive NFL package.

Best international programming 

DISH offers international channels in 28 languages, a much broader selection than DIRECTV’s eight international programming offers. 

Best installation options 

Most DISH plans have free installation. DIRECTV has a $35 activation fee, which sometimes goes on promotion for $19.95, or even free. 

Best customer service 

DISH and DIRECTV rank nearly identically for customer service and satisfaction. They both offer 24/7 support, including live chat. And they both rank higher than cable TV options. 

Best mobile app 

Both DISH and DIRECTV have useful apps. DISH’s app allows you to watch live tv on the go and manage your DVR. DIRECTV’s app has all those features, plus you can use it as a remote.

We’ve done the research on DIRECTV and DISH for you, so you can easily compare and choose the best TV provider for your home. Here’s a look at how the two providers compare in pricing, channels, DVR equipment and contract requirements.

DIRECTV vs. DISH customer satisfaction

According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index, DIRECTV and DISH rank relatively high in customer satisfaction compared to other TV service providers. Both ranked higher on customer satisfaction scales compared to cable TV. Here’s how the two satellite TV providers scored over the past three years.

J.D. Power also rates DISH and DIRECTV higher than cable in overall customer satisfaction, with DISH leading in the North/Central and West regions and DIRECTV leading in the East and South regions in 2018.